Conjugates of immune cell specific macrolide compounds with anti-inflammatory compounds for improved cellular targeting of anti-inflammatory therapy

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to novel compounds represented by the structure I and pharmaceutical preparations thereof for the treatment of inflammatory diseases in humans and animals.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0001] The present invention relates to new anti-inflammatory compounds represented by the general structure I, to their salts and solvates, to processes for their preparation and to the use of these compounds in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and conditions in humans and animals.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Anti-inflammatory medicaments could be classified into those of steroid and of nonsteroid type. Steroid anti-inflammatory compounds are still the most effective ones in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammatory nasal diseases such as allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease, colitis, ulcerative colitis, dermatological inflammations such as eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, pruritis, conjunctivitis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to the excellent potency and effectiveness, medicaments of this type also possess numerous unfavourable effects e.g. on carbohydrate metabolism, calcium resorption, secretion of endogenous corticosteroids as well as on physiological functions of hypophysis, adrenal cortex and thymus. Hitherto developed steroids are highly effective against inflammation conditions and processes since they inhibit many inflammation mediators whereas their systemic unfavourable effects are diminished. Patent applications WO 94/13690, WO 94/14834, WO 92/13873 and WO 92/13872 disclose so-called “soft” steroids or hydrolysable corticosteroids designed for topical application on the inflammation site, whereas their systemic unfavourable effect is diminished due to the instability of “soft” steroids in serum, wherein the active steroid very rapidly hydrolizes into the inactive form. An ideal steroid, however, without unfavourable effects in a long-term and continuous treatment as required for the control of diseases such as asthma or Crohn's disease has yet to be found and it has been worked intensively on finding and developing steroids with an improved therapeutic profile.

[0003] Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medicaments of different mechanisms act on particular inflammation mediators, thus providing a therapeutical effect. Due to different action mechanisms and differences in the inhibition of particular inflammation mediators, the steroid and nonsteroid medicaments possess different profiles of anti-inflammation effects, hence in particular conditions they are used alternatively or preferentially. Unfortunately, nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medicaments are not absolutely specific either and demonstrate unfavourable effects when used in greater concentrations or over long periods. It is known that many nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medicaments act as inhibitors of endogenous COX-1 enzyme, which is very important in maintaining the integrity of the gastric mucosa. Thus, the use of these medicaments causes; injuries of the gastric mucosa and bleeding in numerous patients. For some anti-inflammatory compounds (theophylline) it is known that their therapeutic index is very narrow, which limits their usage.

[0004] Macrolide antibiotics accumulate within different cells of organism, especially within phagocyte cells such as mononuclear peripheral blood cells, peritoneal and alveolar macrophages as well as in the liquid surrounding the bronchoalveolar epithelium (Glaude R. P. et al, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother., 33 1989, 277-282; Olsen K. M. et al, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother., 40 1996, 2582-2585). Moreover, in the literature also relatively weak inflammatory effects of some macrolides are described. Thus, there has recently been described the anti-inflammatory effect of erythromycin derivatives (J. Antimicrob. Chemother., 41, 1998, 37-46; WO 00/42055) and azithromycin derivatives (EP 0283055). An anti-inflammatory effect of some macrolides is also known from in vitro and in vivo studies in experimental animals such as at zimosane-induced peritonitis in mice (J. Antimicrob. Chemother. 30, 1992, 339-348) and at endotoxine-induced neutrophil accumulation in rat trachea (J. Immunol. 159, 1997, 3395-4005). The modulating effect of macrolides upon cytokines such as interleukin 8 (IL-8) (Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care. Med. 156, 1997, 266-271) or interleukin 5 (IL-5) (EP 0775489 and EP 0771564) is known as well.

TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0005] Compounds of the structure I differ from hitherto known ones in their new action mechanism characterized by selective accumulation in the organs and cells targeted in the above-mentioned inflammation conditions and diseases. Such action of the new compounds represented by the structure I arises from the macrolide portion M due to the said specific pharmacokinetic properties. Such pharmacokinetic properties enable the compounds represented by the structure I to act exclusively in the inflammation site just in the inflammation cells themselves by inhibiting the production of inflammation mediators. In such a manner the unfavourable systemic effect of both corticosteroids and nonsteroid anti-inflammatory compounds is avoided. After topical application the molecules rapidly accumulate in inflammation cells, wherein they act by inhibiting the production of cytokines and chemokines as well as other inflammation mediators and thus suppressing the inflammation. According to the known and established prior art, the compounds represented by the structure I, which are the object of the present invention, their pharmacologically acceptable salts and pharmaceutical preparations comprising them have hitherto not been described. Moreover, none of the compounds being the object of the present invention has been described either as an anti-inflammatory substance or as an inhibitor of eosinophilic accumulation in inflammation tissues.

[0006] The object of the present invention are new compounds, their salts and solvates represented by the structure I

[0007] wherein M represents a macrolide subunit possessing the property of accumulation in inflammatory cells, A represents an anti-inflammatory subunit that can be steroid or nonsteroid and L represents a chain linking M and A,

[0008] as well as an improved therapeutic effect of these compounds in treating inflammation diseases and conditions.

[0009] More specifically, this invention relates to compounds, their salts and solvates represented by the structure I, wherein M represents a macrolide subunit represented by the formulas

[0010] wherein

[0011] R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group,

[0012] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0013] R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0014] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0015] R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

[0016] R₄ and R₅ may also together form a carbonyl group, with the proviso that R₁ is then a methyl group;

[0017] wherein

[0018] R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group,

[0019] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0020] R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0021] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any allyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0022] R₄ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group;

[0023] wherein

[0024] R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group,

[0025] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0026] R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0027] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0028] R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

[0029] R₄ and R₅ may also together form a carbonyl group, with the proviso that R₁ is then a methyl group;

[0030] wherein

[0031] R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group,

[0032] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0033] R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0034] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0035] R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

[0036] wherein

[0037] R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group,

[0038] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0039] R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0040] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0041] R₄ is a a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

[0042] R₅ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group;

[0043] wherein

[0044] R₁ is hydrogen or an acetyl group,

[0045] R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or

[0046] R₂ is amino group represented by the substructure

—NR′R″

[0047] wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen,

[0048] R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

[0049] R₅ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group,

[0050] and A is an anti-inflammatory subunit represented by the formulas:

[0051] wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or a hydroxyl or O-acyl or O-alkyl group,

[0052] R₂ represents hydrogen or a methyl group, which may be oriented in α- or β-position,

[0053] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0054] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0055] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine,

[0056] 1,2-position may represent a double or a single carbon-carbon bond;

[0057] wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or a hydroxyl or O-acyl or O-alkyl group,

[0058] R₂ represents hydrogen or an acyl group,

[0059] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0060] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0061] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

[0062] or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group,

[0063] R₁ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms,

[0064] R₂ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms,

[0065] with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen,

[0066] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0067] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0068] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

[0069] or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond, wherein Z is oxygen or a NH group,

[0070] R₁ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms,

[0071] R₂ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen,

[0072] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0073] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0074] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

[0075] or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond,

[0076] R₁ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms,

[0077] R₂ is hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen,

[0078] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0079] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0080] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine, preferably fluorine;

[0081] wherein Z is oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or a hydroxyl group with a free hydrogen or a hydroxyl group or O-acyl or O-alkyl group,

[0082] R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, which may be oriented in α- or β-position,

[0083] R₃ is hydrogen or a radical of an acid having 1-4 carbon atoms,

[0084] X₁ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0085] X₂ is hydrogen or halogen,

[0086] with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine, preferably fluorine,

[0087] 1,2-position may represent a double or single carbon-carbon bond,

[0088] and L is a chain with the formula —CR₁R₂(CR₃R₄)_(n)CR₅R₆—,

[0089] wherein R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆ may be hydrogen, C₁-C₄-alkyl, aryl, metoxy, halogen, hydroxy or mercapto groups, wherein n is 1-10, and

[0090] one or more —CR₃R₄— groups may be substituted with oxygen, sulphur, an aromatic nucleus or an amino group additionally bearing hydrogen or a C₁-C₄ alkyl or aryl group,

[0091] or R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆ may also together form one or more double or triple bonds in a chain, thus forming alkenyl or alkinyl, with the proviso that at least one methylene group is situated at the end of linking L group.

[0092] The chain covalently links subunits M and A via functional groups such as amides, ureates, carbamates, ethers, esters or via alkyl-alkyl or carbon-carbon bonds.

[0093] The terms used in the present invention are defined as stated hereinafter if not specified otherwise.

[0094] “Alkyl” means a monovalent alkane (hydrocarbon), wherefrom a radical is derived, which may be a straight-chain one, a branched-chain one, a cyclic one or a combination of straight-chain and cyclic hydrocarbons and branched-chain and cyclic hydrocarbons. Preferred straight-chain or branched-chain alkyls include methyl, ethyl, propyl, iso-propyl, butyl, sec-butyl and t-butyl groups. Preferable cycloalkyls include cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl groups. Alkyl also represents both a straight-chain or a branched-chain allyl group including or being interrupted by a cycloallyl portion.

[0095] “Alkenyl” means a hydrocarbon radical, which is a straight-chain one, a branched-chain one, a cyclic one or a combination of straight-chain and cyclic hydrocarbons and branched-chain and cyclic hydrocarbons and comprises at least one double carbon-carbon bond. Mainly ethenyl, propenyl, butenyl and cyclohexenyl groups are meant thereby. As already mentioned above for “alkyls”, also alkenyls may be straight-chain, branched-chain or cyclic ones, where a part of the alkenyl group may include double bonds and may also be substituted when a substituted alkenyl group is in question. Alkenyl also represents both a straight-chain or a branched-chain alkenyl group including or being interrupted by a cycloalkenyl portion.

[0096] “Alkynyl” means a hydrocarbon radical, which is a straight-chain or a branched-chain one and includes at least one and at most three triple carbon-carbon bonds. Mainly ethynyl, propynyl and butynyl groups are meant thereby.

[0097] “Aryl” means an aromatic ring such as phenyl group, substituted phenyl or similar groups as well as rings that are fused such as naphtyl and the like. Aryl includes at least one ring having at least 6 carbon atoms or two rings having together 10 carbon atoms, possessing alternating double (resonance) bonds between carbon atoms (mainly phenyl and naphtyl rings). Aryl groups may be additionally substituted with one or two substituents, which may be halogen (fluorine, chlorine or bromine) and hydroxy, C₁-C₇ alkyl, C₁-C₇ alkoxy or aryloxy, C₁-C₇ alkylthio or arylthio, alkylsulfonyl, ciano or amino groups.

[0098] A further object of the present invention relates to a process for the preparation of compounds represented by the structure I.

[0099] These compounds can be prepared from the corresponding steroid part represented by the general structures A1 to A6, wherein all radicals and symbols have the meanings as defined for substructures A1 to A6, and macrolide intermediates represented by the general structures M1 to M6 by linking them via appropriate functional L groups. In an analogous manner, it is also possible to prepare compounds represented by the structure I with nonsteroid anti-inflammatory subunits via their free functionalities suitable for linkage.

[0100] From carboxylic acids of steroid subunits represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, which are prepared as described in the literature (Suzuki, T. et al, Chem. Soc., Perkin Trans. 1 1998, 3831-3836), (McLean, H. M. et al, J. Pharm. Sci. 1994, 83, 476-480), (Little, R. J. et al, Pharin. Res. 1999, 16, 961-967), (Kertesz D. J. et al, J. Org. Chem. 1986, 51, 2315-2328), (Bodor N. S. U.S. Pat. No. 4,710,495, 1987), a compound of the general formula I can be prepared, where the activation with carboxydiimide and benzotriazole (HOBT) in anhydrous dichloromethane in the presence of a base such as triethylamine at room temperature in a flow of argon is used for the formation of an amide bond (Scheme 1).

[0101] When the linking of macrolide subunits to the steroid subunits takes place via an ester bond, the synthesis is performed via the macrolide intermediate M7.

[0102] Esterification in position 2′ of the macrolide can be performed by the reaction with a halogen-substituted acid in dry dichloromethane in the presence of pivaloyl chloride, triethylamine and dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), thus forming intermediates M7 for linking with carboxylic acids of the subunit A (Scheme 2).

[0103] Such an intermediate can further react with the carboxylic functionality of subunit A in case of a steroid subunit such as represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6.

[0104] The reaction is performed in dry DMF in the presence of a base such as potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃) in a flow of argon, yielding a potassium salt of the acid, which in the reaction with the macrolide intermediate gives a compound I of the present invention (Scheme 3).

[0105] When the macrolide subunit means M2 (a macrolide free of cladinose in position 3), it is also possible to perform the coupling with an anti-inflammatory subunit A via an ester bond, whereat the preparation of intermediates M8 and M9 is necessary (Scheme 4).

[0106] Esterification with the carboxylic group of subunit A occurs selectively due to the protected 2′ hydroxyl group of macrolide M9, which is also reactive.

[0107] The synthesis of a compound of the structure I from a macrolide subunit indicated by M1 is performed from an intermediate, whose synthesis is described in Agouridas C., J. Med. Chem. 1998, 41, 4080-4100, in the manner and by the use of reagents described therein. From said intermediate M10 a compound of the structure I is synthesized by the reaction with an anti-inflammatory subunit A bearing a carboxylic functionality by the use of potassium carbonate in dry DMF at room temperature (Scheme 6).

[0108] The compounds of the general structure I comprising a compound M3 as the macrolide unit are synthesized by linking a modified anti-inflammatory unit A8 with a macrolide M3, which is prepared according to the already mentioned method (Agouridas C., J. Med. Chem. 1998, 41, 4080-4100). The anti-inflammatory intermediate A8 is prepared from an acid of the anti-inflammatory compound and a corresponding protected diamine (Boc-protection only from one side) in the presence of hidroxybenzotriazole and EDC in a suitable solvent, preferably dichloromethane or DMF. After obtaining the corresponding amide A7, a deprotection of the terminal amino group is performed by the use of TFA in dichloromethane at room temperature (Scheme 7).

[0109] The intermediate obtained according to the Scheme 7 is reacted in acetonitrile in a flow of nitrogen with a macrolide subunit M12, which is activated by carboxydiimide and comprises protected hydroxyl groups in positions 2′ 4″ (Scheme 8).

[0110] If the steroid subunit is described as indicated for the general structure A5, wherein all groups and radicals have the meanings as described in the above-mentioned definitions, the coupling reaction with the macrolide group is performed by the esterification of the intermediate A9 obtained according to the literature (HU 55409) and of the macrolide hydroxyl group (Scheme 9).

[0111] A further object of the present invention relates to the use of compounds of the general structure I as anti-inflammatory, anti-anaphylactic and immunomodulating agents, which, depending on the inflammation site, can be administered in different ways such as percutaneously, orally, buccally, rectally, parenterally or by inhalation when a topical application within the respiratory tract is intended.

[0112] A further object of the present invention relates to the preparation of such pharmaceutical forms of compounds to achieve the optimal bioavailability of the active compound I. For percutaneous administration the compound I can be prepared in a form of an ointment or a cream, a gel or a lotion. Ointments, creams and gels can be formulated by the use of a water or oil base under the addition of an appropriate emulgator or gelling agent, when a gel form is formulated. The formulation is especially significant for respiratory inhalation, wherein the compound I can be in the form of an aerosol under pressure. For all forms of aerosol formulations it is recommended to micronise the compound I, which has been previously homogenised in lactose, glucose, higher fatty acids, sodium salt of dioctylsulfosuccinic acid or, most preferably, in carboxymethyl cellulose, in order to achieve the size of 5 μm for the greatest number of particles. For the inhalation formulation the aerosol can be mixed with a propellant serving for spraying the active substance.

[0113] The compound I for inhalation application can be applied in the form of a dry powder with micronised particles.

[0114] The compound can also be incorporated in a formulation for treating Crohn's disease, where it can be administered orally or rectally. The formulation for oral administration must be formulated so as to enable the bioavailability of the compound in the inflammation part of the intestine. This can be achieved by different combinationa of delayed release formulations. The compound I can also be used in the treatment of Crohn's disease and intestine inflammation disease if the compound is applied in the form of a clyster, wherefor a suitable formulation can be used.

[0115] The appropriate preparations of the compounds that are the object of the present invention can be used in the prophylaxis or treatment of different diseases and pathological inflammatory conditions including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammatory nasal diseases such as allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease, colitis, intestine inflammation, ulcerative colitis, dermatological inflammations such as eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, neurodermnatitis, pruritis, conjunctivitis and rheumatoid arthritis.

[0116] The therapeutic effect of the compounds of the present invention was determined in the following in vitro and in vivo experiments.

[0117] Assay of Binding to the Human Glucocorticoid Receptor

[0118] The gene for alpha isoform of human glucocorticoid receptor was cloned by reverse polymerase chain reaction. The total RNA was isolated from human peripheral blood lymphocites according to the instructions of the manufacturer (Qiagen), transcripted into cDNA with AMV reverse transcriptase (Roche) and the gene was multiplied by specific primers 1) 5′ ATATGGATCCCTGATGGACTCCAAAGAATCATTAACTCC3′ 2) 5′ ATATCTCGAGGGCAGTCACTTTTGATGAAACAGAAG3′

[0119] The obtained reaction product was cloned into XhoI/BamHI site of Bluescript KS plasmid (Stratagene), subjected to sequencing by dideoxy fluorescent method with M13 and M13 rev primers (Mycrosynth) and then it was cloned into XhoI/BamHI site of pcDNA3.1 rhygro(+)plasmid (Invitrogen). 1×10⁵ COS-1 cells were seeded onto a 12-well plate (Falcon) in DMEM medium (Life Technologies) with 10% FBS (Biowhitaker) and cultivated up to a 70% confluence at 37° C. in an atmosphere with 5% CO₂. The medium was removed and 1 μg of DNA, 7 μl of PLUS reagent and 2 μl of Lipofectamine (Life Technologies) in 500 μl DMEM were added per well. The cells were incubated at 37° C. in an atmosphere with 5% CO₂ and after 5 hours the same volume of 20% FBS/DMEM was added. After 24 hours the medium was completely changed. 48 hours after the transfection, the test compounds in different concentrations and 24 nM [³H] dexamethasone (Pharmacia) in DMEN medium were added. The cells were incubated for 90 minutes at 37° C. in an atmosphere with 5% CO₂, washed three times with PBS buffer (Sigma), cooled to 4° C. (pH=7.4) and then lyzed in Tris buffer (pH=8.0) (Sigma) with 0.2% SDS (Sigma). After the addition of UltimaGold XR (Packard) scintillation liquid, the residual radioactivity was read in a Tricarb (Packard) β-scintillation counter.

[0120] Compounds 9, 10 and 27 are able to compete with radioactive dexamethasone in the binding site on the glucocorticoid receptor.

[0121] Assay of Steroid Introduction into Cells

[0122] CHO and COS-1 cells were cultivated up to confluence in 75 cm² flasks in Hamm F 12 medium (Life Technologies) with 10% FBS (CHO) or in DMEM medium with 10% FBS (COS-1). 1 μM of radioactive compound 10 with total 2 μCi activity was added onto the cells and it was incubated for 90 minutes at 37° C. in an atmosphere with 5% CO₂. The cell supernatant was collected, the cells were lysed and then the radioactivity in the cell lysate as well as in the cell supernatant was read. The compound 10 was able to accumulate in the cells in a greater concentration than in the supernatant.

[0123] Assay of Inhibition of Mouse T-Cell hybridoma 13 Proliferation as a Result of apoptose Induction

[0124] In a 96-well plate triplicates of test steroid dilution in RPMI medium (Imunolo{haeck over (s)}ki zavod) with 10% PBS were performed. To the solutions of compounds 20 000 cells per well were added and incubated overnight at 37° C. in an atmosphere with 5% CO₂, then 1 μCi of [³H] thymidine (Pharmacia) was added and it was incubated for additional 3 hours. The cells were harvested by sucking over GF/C filter (Packard). Onto each well 30 μl of Microscynt O scintillation liquid (Packard) were added and the incorporated radioactivity was measured on a β-scintillation counter (Packard). The specifity of apoptose induction by glucocorticoids was proven by antagonising the proliferation inhibition with mifepristone (Sigma).

[0125] Compounds 8, 9, 10 and 27 demonstrated an inhibition of cell hybridoma 13 proliferation.

[0126] Assay of Inhibition of Interleukin-2 Production

[0127] Onto a 96-well plate (Nunc) 15 ng of 2C11 antibodies (Pharmingen) per well were added and left to adsorb in PBS buffer (pH=7.4) overnight at 4° C. PBS was removed, the plate was washed with RPMI medium and then 50 000 cells per well were added and incubated in the medium with and without a dilution of the test compounds. The concentration of IL-2 in the supernatant was measured by ELISA specific for mouse IL-2 (R&D Systems).

[0128] The compounds 9, 10 and 27 demonstrate an inhibition of interleukin-2 production induced by the stimulation via CD3 receptor. TABLE 2 Binding to the glucocorticoid Induction of H13 Inhibition of IL-2 Compound receptor cells apoptose synthesis  5 ND − −  8 + + +  9 + + + 10 + + + 11 ND − − 27 + + + dexamethasone + + +

[0129] Model of Croton Oil-Induced Ear Edema

[0130] Male Sprague Dawley rats with body weight of 200-250 g were randomly divided into groups, marked and the inital ear thickness was measured with a digital caliper.

[0131] To the control group 50 μl of solvent (acetone, Kemika) per ear were applied. In the same manner also the test compound in a dose of 1 mg/ear or the standard (1 mg/ear of dexamethasone, Krka) dissolved in acetone were applied. Thirty minutes later an ear edema was induced with 20% croton oil (Sigma). The maximum intensity of the inflammation was reached five hours after the application of croton oil. The percentage of the ear edema inhibition was determined by comparing the ears of the treated animals and of the control ones. In this model the compound 10 was tested, which demonstrated a similar activity as the tested standard.

[0132] Model of Lung Eosinophilia in Mice

[0133] Male Balb/C mice with a body weight of 20-25 g were randomly divided into groups. They were sensibilized by an i.p. injection of ovalbumine (OVA, Sigma) on zero day and on the fourteenth day. On the twentieth day the mice were subjected to a provocative test by i.n. application of OVA (positive control or test groups) or PBS (negative control). 48 hours after i.n. aplication of OVA, the animals were anesthetized and the lungs were rinsed with 1 ml of PBS. The cells were separated on Cytospin 3 cytocentrifuge (Shandon). The cells were stained in Diff-Quick (Dade) and the percentage of eozinophiles was determined by differential counting of at least 100 cells.

[0134] Fluticasone and beclomethasone were used as standard substances under positive and negative control.

[0135] The compounds were administered daily i.n. or i.p. in different doses 2 days before provocative test and up to the completion of the test.

[0136] Compounds 8, 9 and 10 statistically significantly (t-test, p<0.05) reduced the number of eosinophiles in the lung rinse with regard to the positive control.

[0137] Influence of Compounds on the Thymus Weight

[0138] Male Sprague Dawley rats with a body weight of 200 g were randomly divided into groups of six animals. To anaesthetized animals sterilized weighed pellets of filter paper were implanted s.c. dorsally. The pellets in the control group were impregnated with acetone, whereas in the test groups they were impregnated either with the standard (prednisolone, Sigma) or with the compound 10. After 7 days the animals were put to sleep and their thymuses were isolated and weighed. The systemic effects were estimated by comparing the thymus weight in the test and control groups.

[0139] The standard statistically significantly reduced the thymus weights with regard to the control, while the compound 10 did not affect the thymus weights.

PREPARATION PROCESSES WITH EXAMPLES

[0140] The present invention is illustrated but in no way limited by the following Examples.

EXAMPLE 1 Intermediate M11, Wherein R₄ Represents a Cladinose Group (9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A)

[0141] To a solution of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(β-cianoethyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (3 g; 3.8 mmole) in ethanol (100 ml), 500 mg of PtO₂ were added. The reaction was performed in an autoclave during 2 days under the pressure of 40 bar. Subsequently, the reaction mixture was filtered and ethanol was evaporated on a rotary evaporator. The residue was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CH₃OH:CH₂Cl₂:NH₄OH=50:30:2). 700 mg of the pure product were obtained. MS(ES⁺): 793 (MH⁺)

Intermediate M11, Wherein R₄ Represents a Hydroxyl Group

[0142] The intermediate M11 was prepared according to the process described in Example 1 from 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a(β-cianoethyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (3.5 g; 5.55 mmole). 985 mg of the product were obtained. MS (ES⁺): 635 (MH⁺)

EXAMPLE 2 Intermediate M7, Wherein R₄ Represents a Cladinose Group

[0143] To a solution of 5-bromovaleric acid (1.282 g; 7.07 mmole) in dry CH₂Cl₂ (10 ml), 1 ml (7.23 mmole) of triethylamine, 868 mg (7.10 mmole) of 4-dimethyl-aminopyridine and 0.940 ml (7.63 mmole) of pivaloyl chloride were added. The solution was stirred for 2 hours at room temperature in a flow of argon and then a solution of azithromycin (2 g; 2.67 mmole) in 10 ml of dry CH₂Cl₂ was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for three days at room temperature. Subsequently, 60 ml of saturated NaHCO₃ solution were added to the reaction mixture and the layers were separated. The aqueous layer was twice more extracted with 40 ml of CH₂Cl₂. The combined organic extracts were washed with a saturated NaCl solution, dried over K₂CO₃ and evaporated in a rotary evaporator. The obtained oily product was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CH₂Cl₂:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=90:9:1.5). 511 mg of the pure product were obtained. MS(ES⁺): 912 (MH⁺)

[0144] The intermediates M7 and M9 were prepared according to the process described in Example 2.

Intermediate M7, Wherein R₄ Represents a Hydroxyl Group

[0145] The intermediate M7 was prepared from 3-decladynosyl azithromycin (1 g; 1.71 mmole) and 5-bromovaleric acid (929 mg; 5.13 mmole). 400 mg of the product were obtained. MS(ES⁺): 754 (MH⁺)

Intermediate M9

[0146] The intermediate M9 was prepared from 2′-acetyl-3-decladynosyl azithromycin (1.1 g; 1.70 mmole) and 5-bromovaleric acid (921 mg; 5.09 mmole). 329 mg of the product were obtained. MS(ES⁺): 795 (MH⁺)

EXAMPLE 3 Compound 1

[0147] To a suspension of 9α-chloro-6α-fluoro- 11β,17α-dihydroxy- 16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.29 mmole) in dry CH₂Cl₂ (5 ml) cooled to 0° C. under argon, 0.380 ml (2.73 mmole) of triethylamine, 80 mg (0.59 mmole) of 1-hydroxybenzotriazole, 230 mg (0.29 mmole) of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A and 235 mg (1.23 mmole) of 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethyl-carbodiimide hydrochloride were added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature in a flow of argon, then evaporated to a smaller volume on a rotary evaporator and purified on a silica gel column. (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=6:1:0.1). 224 mg of white crystals were obtained (Table 1).

[0148] Compounds 2-12 were prepared from 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A and the corresponding steroid acids according to the process described in Example 3 and stated in Table 1.

Compound 2

[0149] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 11β,17α-dihydroxyandrosta-1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (285 mg) were obtained.

Compound 3

[0150] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (197 mg; 0.25 mmole) and 11β-hydroxy-17α-metoxyandrost-4-ene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (90 mg; 0.25 rnmole), white crystals (115 mg) were obtained.

Compound 4

[0151] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (174 mg; 0.22 mmole) and 9α-fluoro-11β-hydroxy-16α-methyl-androsta-1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (80 mg; 0.22 mmole), white crystals (224 mg) were obtained.

Compound 5

[0152] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 11β-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (96 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (238 mg) were obtained.

Compound 6

[0153] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxyandrosta- 1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (106 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (225 mg) were obtained.

Compound 7

[0154] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-androsta-1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (110 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (107 mg) were obtained.

Compound 8

[0155] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 11β,17α-dihydroxyandrost-4-ene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (75 mg) were obtained.

Compound 9

[0156] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 6α,9α-difluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methylandrosta-1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (115 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (258 mg) were obtained.

Compound 10

[0157] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methylandrosta-1,4-diene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (110 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (224 mg) were obtained.

Compound 11

[0158] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (197 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 9α-chloro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methylandrosta-1,4-diene-3 -one-17β-carboxylic acid (96 mg; 0.24 mmole), white crystals (170 mg) were obtained.

Compound 12

[0159] By a reaction of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (230 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 17α-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3,11-dione-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (247 mg) were obtained.

EXAMPLE 4 Compound 13

[0160] A mixture of 6α,9α-difluoro-11β,17α-trihydroxy-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid-16,17-acetonide (104 mg; 0.24 mmole), diizopropylethylamine (45 ml, 0.26 mmole), 1-hidroxybenzotriazole (65 mg; 0.48 mmole), 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9α-homoerythromycin A (190 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 1-(3-dimethyl-aminopropyl)-3-ethyl-carbodiimide hydrochloride (184 mg; 0.96 mmole) in dry DMF (10 ml) was heated under reflux while stirring at 100° C. in an argon atmosphere. Subsequently, the reaction mixture was cooled and evaporated on a rotary evaporator. The residue was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=6:1:0.1). 31 mg of the pure product were obtained (Table 1).

Compound 14

[0161] Compound 14 was prepared according to the process described in Example 4 from 6α,9α-difluoro-11β,16α,17α-trihydroxy-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid-16,17-acetonide (104 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (150 mg; 0,24 mmole). 60 mg of the product were obtained (Table 1).

EXAMPLE 5 Compound 15

[0162] To a suspension of 9α-chloro-6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (110 mg; 0.27 mmole) in dry CH₂Cl₂ (5 ml) cooled to 0° C. in a flow of argon, 0.348 ml (2.5 mmole) of triethylamine, 73 mg (0.54 mmole) of 1-hydroxybenzotriazole, 169 mg (0.27 mmole) of 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A and 215 mg (1.12 mmole) of 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethyl-carbodiimide hydrochloride were added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature, evaporated to a smaller volume on a rotary evaporator and purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=6:1:0.1). 235 mg of white crystals were obtained (Table 1).

[0163] Compounds 16-19 were prepared according to the process described in Example 5 and stated in Table 1.

Compound 16

[0164] By a reaction of 6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (90 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (150 mg; 0.24 mmole), white crystals (138 mg) were obtained.

Compound 17

[0165] By a reaction of 6α,9α-difluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (94 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (150 mg; 0.24 mmole), white crystals (163 mg) were obtained.

Compound 18

[0166] By a reaction of 11β,17α-dihydroxyandrost-4-ene-3-one-17β-carboxylic acid (84 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homo-erythromycin A (150 mg; 0.24 mmole), white crystals (112 mg) were obtained.

Compound 19

[0167] By a reaction of 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3 -oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (110 mg; 0.29 mmole) and 3-decladinosyl-9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A (185 mg; 0.29 mmole), white crystals (155 mg) were obtained.

EXAMPLE 6 Compound 20

[0168] To a suspension of stereoisomeric acid (20 R,S)-11β,17,20-trihydroxy-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-21-carboxylic acid (200 mg; 0.53 mmole) in dry CH₂Cl₂ (5 ml) under argon, 0.760 ml of triethylamine, 160 mg (1.2 mmole) of 1-hydroxybenzotriazole, 460 mg (0.58 mmole) of 9-deoxo-9a-aza-9a-(γ-aminopropyl)-9a-homoerythromycin A and 470 mg (2.45 mmole) of 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethyl-carbodiimide hydrochloride were added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 24 hours at room temperature, then evaporated to a smaller volume on a rotary evaporator and purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=6:1:0.1). 405 mg of the product were obtained (Table 1).

EXAMPLE 7 Compound 21

[0169] To a solution of 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (135 mg; 0.35 mmole) in dry DMF (3 ml), potassium carbonate (49 mg; 0.35 mmole) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. in a flow of argon and then a solution of 311 mg (0.39 mmole) of the intermediate M9 in 4 ml of dry DMF was added. After stirring for 5 days at room temperature, DMF was evaporated on a rotary evaporator and the residue was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=10:1:0.1). 53 mg of the pure product were obtained (Table 1).

EXAMPLE 8 Compound 22

[0170] To a solution of 6α,9α-difluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.25 mmole) in dry DMF (3 ml), potassium carbonate (35 mg; 0.25 mmole) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. in a flow of argon and then a solution of 252 mg (0.28 mmole) of the intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents cladinose, in 4 ml of dry DMF was added. After stirring for 2 days at room temperature, DMF was evaporated on a rotary evaporator and the residue was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=12:1:0.1). 42 mg of the pure product were obtained (Table 1).

[0171] Compounds 23 and 24 were prepared according to the process described in Example 8 and stated in Table 1.

Compound 23

[0172] By a reaction of 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (99 mg; 0.26 mmole) and 285 mg (0.31 mmole) of intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents cladinose, white crystals (42 mg) were obtained.

Compound 24

[0173] By a reaction of 9α-chloro-6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (81 mg; 0.20 mmole) and 222 mg (0.24 mmole) of intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents cladinose, white crystals (54 mg) were obtained (Table 1).

EXAMPLE 9 Compound 25

[0174] To a solution of 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (83 mg; 0.22 mmole) in dry DMF (3 ml), potassium carbonate (30 mg; 0.22 mmole) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. in a flow of argon and then a solution of 182 mg (0.24 mmole) of intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents a hydroxyl group, in 4 ml of dry DMF was added. After stirring for 24 hours at room temperature, DMF was evaporated on a rotary evaporator and the residue was purified on a silica gel column (eluant: CHCl₃:CH₃OH:NH₄OH=10:1:0.1). 57 mg of the pure product were obtained.

[0175] Compounds 26 and 27 were prepared according to the process described in Example 9 and stated in Table 1.

Compound 26

[0176] By a reaction of 6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (85 mg; 0.22 mmole) and 225 mg (0.25 mmole) of intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents a hydroxyl group, white crystals (20 mg) were obtained.

Compound 27

[0177] By a reaction of 9α-chloro-6α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (100 mg; 0.24 mmole) and 200 mg (0.26 mmole) of intermediate M7, wherein R₄ represents a hydroxyl group, white crystals (59 mg) were obtained.

EXAMPLE 10 Compound 28

[0178] To a solution of 9α-fluoro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3-oxoandrosta-1,4-diene-17β-carboxylic acid (80 mg; 0.21 mmole) in dry DMF (3 ml), potassium carbonate (30 mg; 0.21 mmole) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for one hour at room temperature in a flow of argon and then a solution of 163 mg (0.23 mmole) of 3-O-decladinosyl-6-O-methyl-3-oxoerythromycin-9-O-(2-bromoethyl)oxime in 3 ml of dry DMF was added. The reaction mixture was heated for 4 hours at 100° C. Then it was cooled to room temperature and 40 ml of ethyl-acetate and water (1:1) were added. The organic layer was separated, washed with water and dried over anhydrous potassium carbonate. The residue was purified on a silica gel column with a solvent system chlorophorm:methanol:ammonia=10:1:0.1. 160 mg of white crystals were obtained (Table 1). TABLE 1 M.p. MH⁺ Comp. Structure Molecular formula (° C.) (ES⁺) 1

C₆₁H₁₀₁ClFN₃O₁₆ 194-202 1187 2

C₆₀h₁₀₁N₃O₁₆ 1121 3

C₆₁H₁₀₅N₃O₁₅ — 1137 4

C₆₁H₁₀₂FN₃O₁₅ 1137 5

C₆₀H₁₀₃N₃O₁₅ — 1106 6

C₆₀H₁₀₀FN₃O₁₆ 1139 7

C₆₁H₁₀₂FN₃O₁₆ 175-178 1153 8

C₆₀H₁₀₃N₃O₁₆ 144 1123 9

C₆₁H₁₀₁F₂N₃O₁₆ 169 1171 10

C₆₁H₁₀₂FN₃O₁₆ 170-175 1153 11

C₆₁H₁₀₂ClN₃O₁₆ — 1169 12

C₆₀H₁₀₁N₃O₁₆ — 1121 13

C₆₃H₁₀₃F₂N₃O₁₇ 178 1212 14

C₅₅H₈₉F2N₃O₁₄ — 1055 15

C₅₃H₈₇ClFN₃O₁₃ 130-132 1086 16

C₅₃H_(88FN) ₃O₁₃ 202-204 995 17

C₅₃H₈₇F₂N₃O₁₃ 182 1013 18

C₅₂H₈₉N₃O₁₃ 160-161 965 19

C₅₃H₈₈FN₃O₁₃ 260-265 995 20

C₆₁H₁₀₃N₃O₁₇ 1151 21

C₅₈H₉₃FN₂O₁₆ 174-175 1094 22

C₆₄H₁₀₄F₂N₂O₁₈ 159-160 1228 23

C₆₄H₁₀₅FN₂O₁₈ 161-168 1210 24

C₆₄H₁₀₄ClFN₂O₁₈ 91-99 1244 25

C₅₆H₉₁FN₂O₁₅ 170 1052 26

C₅₆H₉₁FN₂O₁₅ 145-151 1052 27

C₅₆H₉₀ClFN₂O₁₅ 130-132 1086 28

C₅₃H₈₃FN₂O₁₅ — 1007 

1. Compounds, their salts and solvates represented by the structure I

characterized in that M represents a macrolide subunit possessing the property of accumulation in inflammatory cells, A represents an anti-inflammatory subunit that can be steroid or nonsteroid and L represents a chain linking M and A, and improved therapeutic effect of these compounds in the treatment of inflammation diseases and conditions.
 2. Compounds, their salts and solvates represented by the structure I

characterized in that M represents a macrolide subunit represented by the formulas

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

R₄ and R₅ may also together form a carbonyl group, with the proviso that R₁ is then a methyl group,

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group;

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

R₄ and R₅ may also together form a carbonyl group, with the proviso that R₁ is then a methyl group,

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or a methyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure:

R₅ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group,

wherein R₁ is hydrogen or an acetyl group, R₂ and R₃ are both hydrogen or together form a bond, or R₂ is an amino group represented by the substructure —NR′R″ wherein R′ and R″ may be, independently from each other, hydrogen or any alkyl or cycloalkyl group having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a hydroxyl or cladinosyl group represented by the structure

R₅ may be any alkyl group having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group, and A represents an anti-inflammatory subunit represented by the formulas:

wherein Z represents oxygen or NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or hydroxyl or O-acyl or O-alkyl group, R₂ represents hydrogen or a methyl group, which may be oriented in α- or β-position, X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine, 1,2-position may represent a double or single carbon-carbon bond,

wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or a hydroxyl or O-acyl or O-alkyl group, R₂ represents hydrogen or an acyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, whereat halogen represents fluorine, chlorine or bromine,

or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond, wherein Z represents oxygen or NH group, R₁ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms, R₂ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms, R₂ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

or stereoisomeric forms thereof, wherein the 1,2-position represents a saturated or unsaturated double bond, R₁ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-4 carbon atoms, R₂ represents hydrogen, a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain having 1-10 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R₁ and R₂ are not simultaneously hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine;

wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen or a hydroxyl group with a free hydrogen or a hydroxyl group or O-acyl or O-alyl group, R₂ represents hydrogen or a methyl group, which may be oriented in α- or β-position, R₃ represents hydrogen or a radical of an acid having 1-4 carbon atoms, X₁ is hydrogen or halogen, X₂ is hydrogen or halogen, with halogen meaning fluorine, chlorine or bromine, 1,2-position may represents double or single carbon-carbon bond, and L represents a chain with the formula —CR₁R₂(CR₃R₄)_(n)CR₅R₆—, wherein R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆ may be hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alky, aryl, metoxy, halogen, hydroxy or mercapto groups, wherein n is 1-10, and one or more —CR₃R₄— groups may be substituted with oxygen, sulphur, an aromatic nucleus or an amino group additionally bearing hydrogen or a C₁-C₄ alkyl or aryl group with the proviso that at least one methylene group is situated at the end of the linking L group.
 3. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M from structure I is represented by the general structure M1, wherein R₁ is a methyl group, R₂ is a dimethylarnino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is cladinose, R₄ and R₅ may also together form a carbonyl group, and the steroid subunit of the structure I is represented by one of the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A₁ is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is a hydroxyl group which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with an alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is a double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in α-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 1-10.
 4. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M from the structure I is represented by the general structure M2, wherein R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is a dimethylamino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a methyl group, and the steroid subunit from the structure I is represented by one of the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A1 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydroxyl group, which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2 wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2 wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2 wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in α-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 1-10.
 5. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M of the structure I is represented by the general structure M3, wherein R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is dimethylamino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ and R₅ may together form carbonyl group, and steroid subunit of the structure I is indicated with one of the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A1 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydroxyl group which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is a double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in α-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 1-10.
 6. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M of the structure I is represented by the general structure M4, wherein R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is a dimethylamino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a cladinose or hydroxyl group, and the steroid subunit of the structure I is represented by one of the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A1 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with an alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is a double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in β-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 2-10.
 7. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M of the structure I is represented by the general structure M5, wherein R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is a dimethylamino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a cladinose or hydroxyl group, R₅ is a methyl group, and the steroid subunit of the structure I is represented by one of the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A1 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with an alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2 wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2 wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is a double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in α-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 2-10.
 8. Compound and salt according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the macrolide subunit M of the structure I is represented by the general structure M6, wherein R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is a dimethylamino group, with the proviso that R₃ is then hydrogen, R₄ is a cladinose or hydroxyl group, R₅ is a methyl group, and the steroid subunit of the structure I is represented by one of the preferred structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein A1 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, which can have a free hydrogen or is additionally alkylated with an alkyl group R′ having 1-4 carbon atoms, preferably a methyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group, X₁ is hydrogen or fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A2 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, R₁ is hydrogen, R₂ is hydrogen, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is hydrogen, wherein A3 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A4 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is unsaturated, R₁ and R₂ are methyl groups, X₁ is fluorine, X₂ is fluorine, wherein A6 is defined as in claims 1 and 2, wherein Z represents oxygen or a NH group, 1,2-position is a double carbon-carbon bond, R₁ is a hydroxyl group, R₂ is hydrogen or a methyl group in α- or β-position, preferably in α-position, R₃ is hydrogen, X₁ is hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine, X₂ is hydrogen or fluorine, wherein chain L is indicated as defined in claim 2, wherein R₁ to R₄ are hydrogen and n is 2-10.
 9. Compound 1 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


10. Compound 2 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


11. Compound 3 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


12. Compound 4 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


13. Compound 5 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


14. Compound 6 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


15. Compound 7 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


16. Compound 8 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


17. Compound 9 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


18. Compound 10 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


19. Compound 11 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


20. Compound 12 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


21. Compound 13 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


22. Compound 14 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


23. Compound 15 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


24. Compound 16 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


25. Compound 17 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


26. Compound 18 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


27. Compound 19 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


28. Compound 20 according to claims 1, 2 and 6, characterized by the formula


29. Compound 21 according to claims 1, 2 and 4, characterized by the formula


30. Compound 22 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


31. Compound 23 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


32. Compound 24 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


33. Compound 25 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


34. Compound 26 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


35. Compound 27 according to claims 1, 2 and 7, characterized by the formula


36. Compound 28 according to claims 1, 2 and 3, characterized by the formula


37. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I wherein all symbols and radicals have the meanings as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radicals and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, and a macrolide intermediate represented by the structure M11 by linking them via corresponding chains represented by the structure L, whereat for the formation of an amide bond from carboxylic acids of the steroid subunits indicated by the formulas A1 to A4 and A6, activation with carboxydiimide and benzotriazole (HOBT) in anhydrous dichloromethane in the presence of a base such as triethylamine at room temperature under the flow of a suitable inert gas is used.
 38. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I, wherein all symbols and radicals have the meanings as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radical and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, and a macrolide intermediate represented by the structure M7 by linking them via corresponding chains represented by the structure L, whereat for the formation of an ester bond from carboxylic acids of the steroid subunits indicated by the formulas A1 to A4 and A6, a reaction with K₂CO₃ in anhydrous dimethylformamide in the flow of a suitable inert gas is used.
 39. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I, wherein all symbols and radicals have the meanings as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radical and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, and a macrolide intermediate represented by the structure M9 by linking them via corresponding chains represented by the structure L, whereat for the formation of an ester bond from carboxylic acids of the steroid subunits indicated by the formulas A1 to A4 and A6, a reaction with K₂CO₃ in anhydrous dimethylformamide in the flow of a suitable inert gas is used.
 40. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I, wherein all symbols and radicals have the meanings as stated in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radical and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, and a macrolide intermediate represented by the structure M10 by linking them via corresponding chains represented by the structure L, whereat for the formation of an ester bond from carboxylic acids of the steroid subunits indicated by the formulas A1 to A4 and A6, a reaction with K₂CO₃ in anhydrous dimethylformamide in the flow of a suitable inert gas is used.
 41. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I, wherein all symbols and radicals have meanings as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radical and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, with the synthesis being performed by mixing the steroid intermediate A8 and the macrolide intermediate represented by the structure M12 in acetonitrile at a temperature from 20 to 60° C. in the flow of a suitable inert gas.
 42. Process for the preparation of compounds represented by the general structure I, wherein all symbols and radicals have the meanings as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the compounds can be prepared from a corresponding steroid part represented by the structures A1 to A4 and A6, wherein all radical and symbols have the meanings as defined for the substructures A1 to A4 and A6, with the esterification synthesis being performed using the steroid intermediate A9 and a macrolide having a free reactive hydroxyl group and mixing them with pivaloyl chloride as an activator at room temperature in the presence of a base such as triethylamine in the flow of a suitable inert gas.
 43. Use of compounds according to claims 1 to 36 in human or veterinary medicine.
 44. Use of compounds according to claims 1 to 36 in therapy of patients with inflammation conditions and diseases.
 45. Use of compounds according to claims 1 to 36 in therapy of patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease, colitis, ulcerative colitis, dermatological inflammations such as eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, pruritis, conjunctivitis and rheumatoid arthritis.
 46. Use of compounds according to claims 1 to 36 in treatment and prophylaxis of inflammatory conditions and diseases induced by excessive nonregulated production of cytokines and inflammation mediators, wherein the suitable pharmaceutical preparations can be administered topically, parenterally or orally.
 47. Use of compounds according to claims 1 to 36 as active substances in pharmaceutical preparations for oral, rectal, parenteral, percutaneous and inhalation application in humans and animals. 